Bailey’s Communication with Proloquo4Text

Bailey is a bright and happy Grade 2 student at c̓əsqənelə Elementary in Maple Ridge (SD 42) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who shines as a member of her class. She has a wonderful team supporting her on her communication journey.

Previously trialling Proloquo2Go, Bailey was using the qwerty keyboard on a district iPad where she used it to spell high-interest words and talk about home time, walks, going outside, and similar topics. Her language was improving, and she started using Proloquo2Go less. The team found that symbol support was no longer beneficial since she was now speaking in single-word phrases and typing.

During this SET-BC service, the team initially trialled Clicker Writer and Proloquo4Text with a Keeble Keyboard. Ultimately, Bailey gravitated to Proloquo4Text which is a text-to-speech app that offers word and sentence prediction. It has a single-screen layout where you can both create your own phrases for quick access and type with the keyboard. Bailey is also exploring some math manipulatives from The Math Learning Centre. As Bailey got more comfortable with her device, she started showing interest in the camera and started taking pictures of things in her life which sparked meaningful conversations. She even started taking short video clips with her peers and talking about them.

In the video, you’ll witness the beautiful connection Bailey has with her mom and sister (Grade 4) as they practice communicating with Proloquo4Text. Her family’s support and open communication with the school team has propelled Bailey in her learning. It was especially impactful for her team to witness how the equipment has supported Bailey’s social connections with peers. Her friends, teachers, and EAs are dedicated to supporting Bailey’s social interactions and academics using Proloquo4Text and educational apps on her iPad. Her mom wants other families to know that although there are tough times and bumps along the way, there is hope for your child who may have ASD, and with time, persistence, and practice, progress can be made. The sky is the limit for Bailey!